1959 Bristol 406 vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1959 Bristol 406. (91 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1959 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 340 kg more than 1959 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Bristol 406 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Bristol 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Bristol 406 | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Bristol | Nissan |
| Model | 406 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 76 L |
